Lake Charles Spreads Kindness with Free Flowers on October 15

Residents and commuters in Lake Charles, Louisiana, experienced a bright start to their day on October 15, 2025, as they received free bouquets in a unique campaign aimed at promoting mental wellness. The initiative, known as “Petal It Forward,” saw more than 100 bouquets distributed by local florists and volunteers, encouraging recipients to share the joy of flowers with others.

The event, organized by The Flower Shop of Lake Charles in collaboration with The Ritz Academy and the Society of American Florists (SAF), is part of a nationwide effort to foster kindness and community spirit. The concept is simple yet impactful: individuals receive two flowers—one to keep and another to give away.

Austin Ramos, owner of The Flower Shop, explained the intention behind the event. “This creates a ripple effect of kindness,” he said. “Our goal is to brighten someone’s day through the simple act of giving flowers.”

At the heart of the campaign is the idea that sharing flowers can significantly enhance mood and promote happiness. Research from the SAF indicates that 88 percent of people feel happy when giving flowers, while 80 percent report joy when receiving them. “It’s scientifically proven that flowers increase your mood,” Austin added. “It just makes you naturally happy, you know?”

Community Engagement and Participation

This year marked the first participation of The Flower Shop in the Petal It Forward initiative. Staff members visited The Villages of Imperial Pointe, a local assisted living community, where residents received bouquets and shared smiles. Meanwhile, volunteers from The Ritz Academy took to the streets to hand out flowers to morning commuters, spreading cheer throughout the city.

Kaila Ramos, co-owner and executive florist at The Flower Shop, expressed excitement about the collaboration. “We’re thrilled to partner with The Ritz Academy and the Society of American Florists to share the power of flowers,” she stated. “In today’s busy world, a simple gesture like giving or receiving flowers can make someone’s day a little brighter, and that’s exactly what this campaign is all about.”

The Petal It Forward initiative typically takes place in mid-October, aligning with a broader movement encouraging florists across the United States to participate in similar acts of kindness. The event serves not only as a means of uplifting spirits but also as a reminder of the importance of community connections.

As the day progressed, residents and commuters alike embraced the moment, appreciating the unexpected joy that a simple bouquet can bring. The initiative stands as a testament to the belief that small acts of kindness can lead to significant changes in individuals’ moods and, ultimately, their lives.